Hot topic: Kindergarten would be expanded to a full-day program if a majority of voters approve it.
Full-day kindergarten would cost $175,319 to implement next school year.
All other towns in the school district – Allenstown, Chichester, Deerfield and Pembroke – have full-day programs. Only about 15 towns in New Hampshire still use a half-day program.
Budget: The proposed operating budget is $11.9 million, up from $11.4 million from last year. Major increases include an increase of $230,000, or more than 30 percent, in the transportation budget due to hikes in the cost of the bus contract and special transportation needs, as well as some increases in contracted salaries and benefits packages.
If approved, the tax rate will go up by $1.50, which translates into an annual tax increase of about $300 on a home assessed at $200,000.
Noteworthy articles: On a separate warrant articles are a three-year contract for the school support staff, costing an extra $62,000 in the first year, adding about 15 cents to the tax rate.
Contested races: One seat on the school board for three years, one seat of the school board for one year.
When and where: Deliberative session will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday at Epsom Central School, 282 Black Hall Road. Ballot voting will take place between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. on March 12 at Epsom Central School.